Ermine: meaning, definitions and examples

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ermine

[ˈɜːrmɪn ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

animal fur

A stoat, especially when in its white winter coat.

Synonyms

stoat, weasel.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
ermine	Use this when referring specifically to the animal in its white winter coat or when talking about luxury or royalty, as the ermine fur has been historically used in royal robes. The queen's robe was trimmed with ermine During winter, the stoat is often referred to as an ermine
stoat	This word is most appropriate when talking about the animal in general, or when referring to its brown summer coat. The stoat is an incredible hunter In summer, the stoat's coat is brown and white
weasel	Use this term for describing the general family of small carnivorous mammals, including the stoat, or when referring to sneaky behavior, as the word 'weasel' can have a negative connotation when describing people. Farmers often have issues with weasels getting into the hen house Be careful, he's a real weasel and can't be trusted

Word

Description / Examples

ermine

Use this when referring specifically to the animal in its white winter coat or when talking about luxury or royalty, as the ermine fur has been historically used in royal robes.

The queen's robe was trimmed with ermine
During winter, the stoat is often referred to as an ermine

stoat

This word is most appropriate when talking about the animal in general, or when referring to its brown summer coat.

The stoat is an incredible hunter
In summer, the stoat's coat is brown and white

weasel

Use this term for describing the general family of small carnivorous mammals, including the stoat, or when referring to sneaky behavior, as the word 'weasel' can have a negative connotation when describing people.

Farmers often have issues with weasels getting into the hen house
Be careful, he's a real weasel and can't be trusted

Examples of usage

The ermine is known for its luxurious fur.
The ermine changes its coat color depending on the season.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

symbol of royalty

A white fur representing purity and royalty, traditionally used for the ceremonial robes of royalty.

Synonyms

fur, pelt.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
ermine	This is another instance of the same word, 'ermine', still referring to the animal or its fur, with the same high-status connotations. The judge wore an ermine-trimmed robe in the courtroom The museum had an exhibition of medieval garments featuring ermine
fur	This word is more general and can refer to the coat of any animal used for clothing or decoration. It's used broadly without the noble and royal associations of 'ermine'. She bought a new fur coat for the winter The hunter sold the furs he collected during the season
pelt	This term refers to the skin and fur of an animal that has been removed from its body, often used in the context of hunting and the fur trade. It can have a more utilitarian or commercial connotation and sometimes a negative one due to animal rights concerns. The trader sold the fox pelts at the market He carefully cleaned and tanned the pelts he had collected last season

Word

Description / Examples

ermine

This is another instance of the same word, 'ermine', still referring to the animal or its fur, with the same high-status connotations.

The judge wore an ermine-trimmed robe in the courtroom
The museum had an exhibition of medieval garments featuring ermine

fur

This word is more general and can refer to the coat of any animal used for clothing or decoration. It's used broadly without the noble and royal associations of 'ermine'.

She bought a new fur coat for the winter
The hunter sold the furs he collected during the season

pelt

This term refers to the skin and fur of an animal that has been removed from its body, often used in the context of hunting and the fur trade. It can have a more utilitarian or commercial connotation and sometimes a negative one due to animal rights concerns.

The trader sold the fox pelts at the market
He carefully cleaned and tanned the pelts he had collected last season

Examples of usage

The queen's ermine robe symbolizes her royal status.
The ermine fur was a sign of wealth and power in medieval times.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'ermine' comes from the Old French 'hermine', which itself traces back to the Latin 'armenia', referring to the animal.
In ancient times, the name for this small creature in some cultures was linked to noble status.
The term has been in use since the 14th century, reflecting its long history in fashion.

Cultural Significance

Ermine fur was highly prized in medieval Europe, often representing power and wealth in royal garments.
In many cultures, the fur symbolizes purity and is associated with high-ranking officials, like judges.
During the Renaissance, artists often depicted royalty wearing ermine, reinforcing its status as a luxury material.

Animal Biology

The ermine is the winter coat of the stoat, which changes color from brown to white to blend in with snowy environments.
This animal can also be found across the Northern Hemisphere, showcasing its adaptability to cold climates.
Ermines are known for their agility and are skilled hunters, primarily feeding on small rodents and birds.

Fashion

Ermine fur has been used traditionally in formal academic and judicial robes, signifying authority.
Modern fashion sometimes uses faux fur imitations to capture the luxurious feel of ermine without harming animals.
The pattern of black-tipped tails along with white fur is a classic design element, often seen in coats and formal attire.

Environmental Impact

Due to hunting and habitat loss, some populations of ermine have seen declines, calling for conservation efforts.
Ethical fashion movements advocate for sustainable practices, encouraging designers to consider alternatives to animal furs.
Research is being conducted on the effects of climate change on the habitat and survival of this species.

Translations

Translations of the word "ermine" in other languages:

🇵🇹 doninha

🇮🇳 नेवला

🇩🇪 Hermelin

🇮🇩 cerpelai

🇺🇦 горностай

🇵🇱 gronostaj

🇯🇵 オコジョ

🇫🇷 hermine

🇪🇸 armiño

🇹🇷 gelincik

🇰🇷 담비

🇸🇦 قاقم

🇨🇿 hermelín

🇸🇰 hermelín

🇨🇳 貂皮

🇸🇮 hermelin

🇮🇸 hreysiköttur

🇰🇿 ақкіс

🇬🇪 თეთრი მელია

🇦🇿 hermelin

🇲🇽 armiño

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,487, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

...
24484 tympanum
24485 impressionable
24486 nomad
24487 ermine
24488 assiduity
24489 lacrimal
24490 crystallography
...